PWHL selects Seattle for second expansion team

The Professional Women's Hockey League announced Seattle as its second expansion city on Wednesday.

The PWHL expanded its foothold in the Pacific Northwest after picking Vancouver to join the circuit last week.

They will join current league members Boston, Minnesota, Montreal, New York, Ottawa and Toronto in 2025-26.

Plans are in the works to add ninth and 10th teams for the 2026-27 season, according to multiple reports.

The new team announced Wednesday initially will be known as PWHL Seattle. Team colors are emerald green and cream, and the team will play at the Seattle Kraken's Climate Pledge Arena.

"Seattle is an incredible sports city and we've seen firsthand the passion for the women's game," Kraken co-owner Samantha Holloway said. "We're also proud to grow the game of hockey ... and together we'll continue to inspire the next generation of hockey players and fans alike."

The PWHL is still finalizing plans for an expansion draft for Vancouver and Seattle.

Launched in 2024, the PWHL is owned by Mark Walter, owner of the Los Angeles Dodgers, and his wife, Kimbra.